Grabowski v. Berryhill

Filing 19

ORDER that upon review of the record as a whole, substantial evidence supports the ALJ's decision, and the decision of the Commissioner of the Social Security Administration is affirmed. a) Plaintiff's Motion to Reverse, (filing no. 15 ), is denied. b) Defendant's Motion to Affirm, (filing no. 16 ), is granted. Judgment in accordance with this memorandum and order will be entered by separate document. Ordered by Magistrate Judge Cheryl R. Zwart. (LAC)

IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
FOR THE DISTRICT OF NEBRASKA
LEANNE GRABOWSKI,
Plaintiff,

4:17CV3060

vs.
MEMORANDUM AND ORDER
NANCY A. BERRYHILL, acting
Commissioner of Social Security;
Defendant.
Plaintiff Leanne Grabowski (“Grabowski”), seeks review of the decision by
the defendant, Nancy A. Berryhill, Acting Commissioner of the Social Security
Administration, denying the application for claimant John Ronald Martin (“Martin”)
for Social Security disability insurance and benefits under Title II of the Act. See
42 U.S.C. § 1381. After carefully reviewing the record, the Commissioner’s
decision is affirmed.

I.

PROCEDURAL BACKGROUND

Martin applied for Title II disability insurance benefits on June 1, 2013,
claiming disability due to post traumatic stress disorder (“PTSD”), attention deficit
hyperactivity disorder (“ADHD”), anxiety, depression, spinal disorders, insomnia,
migraines, arthritis, and glioma. (Filing No. 12-3 at CM/ECF pp. 2–3, 12, 24).
Martin’s claim was denied initially on May 23, 2014. (Id. at CM/ECF p. 11), and
again upon reconsideration on August 6, 2014. (Id. at CM/ECF p. 20). Martin
submitted a written request for a hearing. (Id. at CM/ECF p. 24). ALJ H. Scott
Williams was assigned to Martin’s case and held a hearing on July 17, 2015.
(Filing No. 12-2 at CM/ECF pp. 44–58). Martin was represented by Jeffrey Smith,
a non-attorney representative. (Filing No. 12-3 at CM/ECF p. 24). On July 31,

2015, the ALJ issued his written decision stating Martin was not disabled. (Id. at
CM/ECF pp. 24–33). On October 30, 2015, the Appeals Council remanded
Martin’s case for further evaluation. (Id. at CM/ECF p. 39–42).
On April 25, 2016, Plaintiff Grabowski, claimant Martin’s mother, filed a
notice of substitution following the death of Martin on February 17, 2016. (Filing
No. 12-5 at CM/ECF p. 29). A second hearing was held on July 14, 2016. (Filing
No. 12-2 at CM/ECF p. 32–43). On July 27, 2016, the ALJ issued another
decision denying Martin’s claim of disability. (Id. at CM/ECF pp. 14–26).
Grabowski requested review of the ALJ’s decision to the Appeals Council. (Id. at
CM/ECF p. 2). The Appeals Council denied Grabowski’s request on March 3,
2017. (Id. at CM/ECF pp. 2–5). Grabowski timely appealed the Commissioner’s
final decision on May 26, 2017. (Filing No. 1).

II.

THE ALJ’S DECISION

The ALJ evaluated Martin’s claim through the five-step sequential
evaluation process to determine whether Johnson was disabled. As reflected in
his decision, the ALJ made the following findings:
1.

The claimant met the insured status requirements of the Social
Security Act through December 31, 2018.

2.

The claimant engaged in substantial gainful activity (“SGA”) during
the following periods: from December 2009 through May 2013 (20
CFR 404.1520(b) and 404.1571 et seq.).

3.

The claimant had the following severe impairments: residuals of
infarction; restrictive lung disease; degenerative disc disease;
glioma; posttraumatic stress disorder; depression; anxiety; and
history of substance abuse (20 CFR 404.1520(c)).

2

4.

The claimant did not have an impairment or combination of
impairments that met or medically equaled the severity of one of the
listed impairments in 20 CFR Part 404, Subpart P, Appendix 1 (20
CFR 404.1520(d), 404.1525 and 404.1526).

5.

The claimant had the residual functional capacity (“RFC”) to perform
light work as defined in 20 CFR 404.1567(b) except that he was
limited to occasional climbing of ladders, ropes, and scaffolds;
occasional stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling; frequent
climbing of ramps and stairs and balancing; occasional exposure to
unprotected heights; and continuous exposure to moving
mechanical parts, operation of a motor vehicle, wetness, humidity,
pulmonary irritants, extreme heat and cold. Additionally, he required
a quiet environment such as an office-type setting. Mentally, the
claimant was limited to simple and low-level detailed tasks. He could
respond appropriately to and interact with supervisors and
coworkers on an occasional basis but never with the general public.
He could adapt to usual work situations and to occasional changes
in the work setting.

6.

The claimant was unable to perform any past relevant work (20 CFR
404.1565).

7.

The claimant was born on April 23, 1966, and was 43 years old,
which is defined as a younger individual age 18-49, on the alleged
disability onset date. The claimant subsequently changed age
category to closely approaching advanced age (20 CFR 404.1563).

8.

The claimant had at least a high school education and was able to
communicate in English (20 CFR 404.1564).

9.

Transferability of job skills is not material to the determination of
disability because using the Medical-Vocational Rules as a
framework supports a finding that the claimant was "not disabled,"
whether or not the claimant had transferable job skills (See SSR 8241 and 20 CFR Part 404, Subpart P, Appendix 2).

10.

Considering the claimant's age, education, work experience, and
residual functional capacity, there were jobs that existed in
significant numbers in the national economy that the claimant could
have performed (20 CFR 404.1569 and 404.1569(a)).

3

(Filing No. 12-2 at CM/ECF pp. 16–25).

III.

ISSUES RAISED FOR JUDICIAL REVIEW

Grabowski requests judicial review of the ALJ’s decision, asserting the
following arguments support the claim for reversal:
1.

The ALJ erred by failing to develop the record regarding Claimant’s
work activity before determining he engaged in substantial gainful
activity (“SGA”).

2.

The Residual Functional Capacity (“RFC”) determination is not
supported by substantial evidence because it is not supported by
any opinion evidence and the ALJ mischaracterized the opinion of
Claimant’s treating psychologist.

3.

The ALJ’s Step 5 determination is not supported by substantial
evidence because the jobs are not consistent with the RFC
determination.

(Filing No. 15-1 at CM/ECF p. 1).

IV.

THE RECORD AND PROCEEDINGS BEFORE THE ALJ

Martin was 47-years-old when he submitted his application for benefits and
was 49-years-old on the date of his death. He had completed high school and
had obtained a bachelor’s degree. Martin had past work experience in the Army
performing logistics. Martin worked as a support services specialist for an Army
recruitment command center from December 21, 2009, through May 10, 2013.
(Filing No. 12-2 at CM/ECF P. 17).

In February of 2009, Martin presented at a sleep lab for evaluation of
insomnia. After a sleep study in March of 2009, Martin was diagnosed with

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obstructive sleep apnea and was provided a CPAP machine for treatment. (Filing
No. 13-2 at CM/ECF pp. 17, 38–39).

In March of 2010, Martin was admitted to Skyline Medical Center with a
headache and vision changes in his right eye. (Filing No. 13-1 at CM/ECF p. 6).
Martin underwent several tests and scans to include an MRI, echocardiogram,
and a pulmonary function test. When he was released, Martin was listed as
having a right occipital lobe infarct, hypertension, post-traumatic stress disorder
(“PTSD”), accelerated dyspnea, coronary artery disease, diastolic dysfunction,
obstructive sleep apnea, chronic headaches, alcohol abuse, insomnia,
depression, and night terrors. (Id. at CM/ECF p. 6).

In July of 2010, Martin was treated by Charles Clarke, M.D. for complaints
of daily headaches. (Filing No. 13-3 at CM/ECF p. 17). He informed Dr. Clarke
that his vision problems had resolved three weeks earlier. Dr. Clarke ordered an
MRI which showed hyperintensity in the right posterior subcortical deep white
matter. (Id. at CM/ECF p. 19).

Martin saw Dr. Clarke again in September of 2010 for daily headaches. (Id.
at CM/ECF p. 20). An MRI revealed a lesion in the right hemisphere and which
Dr. Clarke believed was a glioma. (Id. at CM/ECF pp. 19–20). Dr. Clarke referred
Martin to a neurosurgeon for evaluation and treatment. Dr. Reid C. Thompson, a
neurosurgeon, reported that he believed Martin had a low grade astrocytoma on
his right posterior temporal lobe. He performed a biopsy. (Id. at CM/ECF pp. 7,
22). Thereafter, Martin saw Paul M. Moots, M.D., a neurooncology consult who
reviewed the biopsy results and indicated he believed Marin had a glioma, but he
noted that other diagnoses had not been excluded. (Id. at CM/ECF p. 28).

5

Martin saw Dr. Clarke again in February of 2011 for his headaches. (Id. at
CM/ECF p. 29). Dr. Clarke began to suspect Martin’s headaches were caused by
untreated sleep apnea. (Id. at CM/ECF p. 30). Martin additionally saw Dr. Moots
for his headaches in March of 2011. Through the months of February to May of
2011, these doctors attempted to change Martin’s medications to alleviate his
headache, and neck and back pain issues. ( Id. at CM/ECF pp. 30–35).

In July of 2011, Dr. Clarke wrote a letter stating Martin reported that
standing more than 15 minutes makes him weak and exhausted, and sitting more
than 30 minutes causes stiffness and pain requiring him to squat to obtain
temporary relief. (Filing No. 13-2 at CM/ECF p. 74). He explained Martin’s
condition and treatment, and also noted Martin had degenerative arthritis,
degenerative disc disease, and osteoarthritis, which were connected to his
military service. (Id. at CM/ECF pp. 74–75). Dr. Clarke’s letter also said Martin
had extensive appointments that required him to frequently miss work.

In January of 2012, Martin began treatment with Clarkesville Pain Clinic
(“CPC”) presenting complaints of chronic neck and back pain, numbness in his
lower back, headaches, and fatigue. (Filing No. 13-4 at CM/ECF p. 35). After a
thorough examination, Martin was diagnosed with cervical syndrome, lumbago,
and enthesopathy of the hip. (Id. at CM/ECF p. 37). X-rays showed multilevel
degenerative disc disease and spondylosis in the lumbar and cervical spines. (Id.
at CM/ECF p. 2). Through the following months, Martin continued to visit CPC
with complaints of back and neck pain and he received treatment including
prescriptions, injections, and lumbar medical branch blocks. (Id. at CM/ECF pp.
15–27).

6

During a September 2012 appointment to the CPC, Martin tested positive
for opiates. (Id. at CM/ECF p. 13). He again tested positive for opiates and
Oxycodone in October. (Id. at CM/ECF p. 5). Also in October, Marin reported that
he had been stretching out his prescribed medication.
Martin began treatment at the Veteran’s Affairs (“VA”) psychology clinic in
August of 2012. (Filing No. 13-5 at CM/ECF p. 63 ). It was noted that he was last
seen a year earlier, and he had done well in the last year but now reported a
worsening mood and depression, with anger problems. He was assessed with
PTSD and mood disorder. In September, Martin complained of irritability,
difficulty sleeping, and occasional nightmares and hypervigilance in crowds, but
he reported the medication was helping. (Id. at CM/ECF p. 59). He was
encouraged to try counseling. In December, Martin complained that he was
significantly more depressed since his last visit, but he had stopped taking his
medications for depression and pain. (Id. at CM/ECF p. 52). He reported
nightmares, hypervigilance in groups and at work, anger, and irritability, but he
stated he did not want medication. He was referred to a PTSD clinic. (Id. at
CM/ECF p. 54).

In January of 2013, Martin was diagnosed with PTSD and depressive
disorder. (Id. at CM/ECF p. 48). He was prescribed additional medications for
anxiety and sleep and he reported he had restarted his Zoloft prescription.

In March of 2013, Martin was referred to general psychology when the
PTSD clinic had concluded Martin did not meet the criteria for PTSD. (Id. at
CM/ECF p. 44). Around this same time, Martin reported increased alcohol use
after previously being abstinent from alcohol. (Id. at CM/ECF p. 34).

7

In April of 2013, Martin reported that he was fired from his job due to verbal
altercations and he had sued his former employer. These events reportedly
exacerbated his PTSD and depression, and Martin had difficulty trusting others.
(Id. at CM/ECF p. 30). His drinking increased as well.

In August of 2013, Martin began treatment with Pennyroyal Regional
(“Pennyroyal”). (Filing No. 13-6 at CM/ECF p. 3). He was diagnosed with major
depressive mood disorder and PTSD, and referred for ADHD testing. (Id. at
CM/ECF p. 6). In October of 2013, Martin underwent ADHD testing with Robert
B. Sivley, Jr., Psy.D. (Id. at CM/ECF p. 10). Dr. Sivley noted that results of the
testing were inconclusive because one of the tests indicated symptom
magnification which indicated that the Martin "probably over-reported and
embellished the nature and severity of his psychopathological symptoms." (Id. at
CM/ECF pp. 15–16).

In July of 2013, Martin began treatment with Manoj Majmudar, M.D. for
back and neck pain. He was diagnosed with lumbago, generalized neck pain,
and lumbar radiculopathy. (Filing No. 13-5 at CM/ECF p. 73). Dr. Majmudar
noted an MRI showed disc problems at L4-L5, but the symptoms were fairly well
controlled. In August of 2013, Martin returned to Dr. Majmudar with complaints of
back pain radiating into his right arm and leg. A drug test was positive for
cocaine. Dr. Majmudar refused to refill Martin’s Lortab prescription, and sent the
drug test out for a confirmation test. (Id. at CM/ECF p. 78). Dr. Majmudar
reported that an August MRI showed cervical disc disease. A September 12,
2013 examination demonstrated full range of motion, intact motor strength and
sensation, and no tenderness. Martin’s drug test came back positive for cocaine,
so Dr. Majmudar refused to prescribe controlled substances. (Id. at CM/ECF p.

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80). Martin was referred to pain management. However he did not seek further
treatment for back pain until November of 2014.

In November of 2014, Martin treated with Patricia Blewett, M.D., for
complaints of anxiety and back pain radiating to his buttocks. (Filing No. 13-8 at
CM/ECF p. 13). A cervical MRI revealed some moderate/severe foraminal
blockages. Martin reported symptoms of high irritability, anxiety, depression,
insomnia, and a feeling of being watched. Dr. Blewett increased the prescribed
Zoloft and referred Martin to pain management.

In November of 2014, Martin presented to Kelly Ard, CSW, seeking
emergency services for alcohol and drug dependence. (Filing No. 13-9 at
CM/ECF p. 2). Martin’s drug use had resulted in criminal charges for DUI and
simple possession. On December 2, 2014, Martin presented to Pennyroyal for
drug treatment. (Id. at CM/ECF p. 22). He needed residential treatment, as he did
not have the coping skills to manage recovery on an outpatient basis. (Id. at
CM/ECF p. 27).

On December 2, 2014, Steven Thore, M.D., of Pennyroyal Regional MHMR Board provided Martin with medication and outpatient mental health therapy.
Martin entered a rehabilitation treatment program December 4, 2014. (Id. at
CM/ECF p. 32). The therapy progress notes from Pennyroyal staff from
December 4, 2014 through December 21, 2014, repeatedly state Martin had a
normal affect and mood, he was cooperative and friendly, attentive, and engaged
in the discussions, he had a normal appearance, and there was no alcohol or
drug use. Dr. Thore noted on December 10, 2014, that Martin was improving on
a recent adjustment of his medication. (Id. at CM/ECF p. 36).

9

Dr. Thore signed his name below the signature of a licensed social worker
who completed a form in January of 2015. (Filing No. 13-8 at CM/ECF p. 3). The
report stated Martin had been diagnosed with major depression, PTSD, and
alcohol dependence but that his condition was stable and somewhat improved.
However, Dr. Thore also stated Martin’s psychiatric symptoms were too acute for
him to be able to work. The form stated Martin had a current Global Assessment
of Functioning (“GAF”) score of 55 to 60 and Martin had a fairly good long term
prognosis with his medication treatment.

In January of 2015, after having just completed a 21-day rehabilitation
program for cocaine addiction, Martin attended a consultative examination with
Thomas S. Dake, M.D. (Filing No. 13-7 at CM/ECF p. 78). Martin reported that he
did not carry groceries, could not lift a two-year-old child three times in eight
hours, does not cook or clean, cannot sit through a movie, and he does not live
alone. Dr. Dake noted that Martin had obvious psychological issues and was
quite tense during the examination. Dr. Dake’s objective findings included a
normal neurological examination and full range of motion in Martin’s joints and
spine. Dr. Dake diagnosed Martin with chronic anxiety and depression.

Dr. Dake also completed a Medical Source Statement regarding Martin’s
ability to perform work activities. (Id. at CM/ECF pp. 84–89). Dr. Dake opined
Martin could lift and carry up to 50 pounds frequently; sit, stand, and/or walk a
total of 7 hours each during the workday; had no limitations in using his hands or
feet; could engage in various postural and environment activities on a mostly
frequent basis, with some occasional limitations (climbing ladders, stooping,
kneeling, crouching, and crawling) due to his mild obesity; and could perform all
activities of daily living.

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Nurse Practitioner Laytheater Brown saw Martin between January and
May of 2015. (Filing No. 13-10 at CM/ECF p. 15). The medical records do not
indicate she performed any physical examinations. (Id. at CM/ECF pp. 36–44).
Another nurse completed and signed an employment capacities form for Nurse
Brown after Martin’s first visit on January 26, 2015. (Filing No. 13-8 at CM/ECF p.
5). This form indicated Martin could sit 6-8 hours a day, stand/walk up to 2 hours
a day, frequently and occasionally lift 10 pounds, had no limitations in using his
hands, and could occasionally bend, squat, kneel, climb, reach, twist, rotate, and
crawl, and he needed noise restrictions due to paranoia. (Id. at CM/ECF p. 6). He
was able to interact with people for up to two hours, had very little tolerance for
stress, and was able to concentrate and focus for thirty minutes. The form
ultimately concluded that Martin was not capable of working.
At the first hearing on Martin’s claims,1 Martin testified that he had joint
aches and pains and had difficulty putting his shoes on, and his aunt, who lived
with him, did all the housework, shopping, and cooking, and 75 percent of the
driving. (Id. at CM/ECF pp. 47-48). He would sometimes help with the laundry,
usually just getting his clothes together for his aunt. (Id. at CM/ECF p. 49). He
was only able to drive thirty minutes before he would get a bad headache. (Id. at
CM/ECF p. 48). He could search the internet three or four times a day, but only
for half an hour at a time because he could not concentrate longer than that. (Id.
at CM/ECF p. 49). He would feel paranoid around people and would only shop at
convenience stores. (Id. at CM/ECF p. 50). He got three to four hours of sleep at
night due to nightmares and flashbacks. (Id. at CM/ECF p. 51). He could walk
three or four blocks and lift ten to fifteen pounds. (Id. at CM/ECF p. 52).

1

At the second hearing, Martin's mother, Leanne Grabowski, testified that Martin
passed away from choking. She was estranged from Martin and could not testify as to
the Martin's symptoms and limitations. Accordingly, the ALJ relied on Martin’s testimony
from the first hearing in making the final determination.

11

At the second hearing, the VE testified that a person of Martin’s age,
education, and work experience, with the determined RFC, could not perform any
past relevant work. The ALJ’s hypothetical questioning of the VE included
limitations consistent with the ALJ’s RFC. The limitations in the hypothetical
included working in a quiet environment such as an office setting. (Id. at CM/ECF
p. 38). The VE then asked the ALJ to clarify whether he meant noise at a
moderate level, and the ALJ responded it depended on the VE’s definition of
moderate as the ALJ was thinking an office setting. (Id.). The VE responded that
there are office-type setting jobs with a noise level of quiet—level 2 and lower,
and office-type setting jobs with a moderate noise level of 3. (Id. at CM/ECF p.
39).The ALJ explained he wanted the VE to list jobs with an office-type noise
environment, “whether it’s moderate or quiet . . . Some [offices] might be noisier
than others.” (Id.). In response to that hypothetical question, the VE identified the
following light occupations Martin could perform: mailroom clerk, collator
operator, and marker. (Id. at CM/ECF p. 40).

V.

LEGAL ANALYSIS

A denial of benefits by the Commissioner is reviewed to determine whether
the denial is supported by substantial evidence on the record as a whole. Hogan
v. Apfel, 239 F.3d 958, 960 (8th Cir. 2001).
If substantial evidence on the record as a whole supports the
Commissioner=s decision, it must be affirmed. Choate v. Barnhart,
457 F.3d 865, 869 (8th Cir. 2006). “‘Substantial evidence is relevant
evidence that a reasonable mind would accept as adequate to
support the Commissioner=s conclusion.’” Smith v. Barnhart, 435
F.3d 926, 930 (8th Cir. 2006) (quoting Young v. Apfel, 221 F.3d
1065, 1068 (8th Cir. 2000)). “The ALJ is in the best position to gauge

12

the credibility of testimony and is granted deference in that regard.”
Estes v. Barnhart, 275 F.3d 722, 724 (8th Cir. 2002).
Schultz v. Astrue, 479 F.3d 979, 982 (8th Cir. 2007). Evidence that both supports
and detracts from the Commissioner’s decision must be considered, but the
decision may not be reversed merely because substantial evidence supports a
contrary outcome. Wildman v. Astrue, 596 F. 3d 959 (8th Cir. 2010). The court
should not overturn an ALJ’s decision so long as it is in the “zone of choice” even
if the court disagrees with the ALJ’s conclusion. Buckner v. Astrue, 646 F.3d 549,
556 (8th Cir. 2011).
Grabowski claims the court must reverse the Commissioner’s decision
because the ALJ failed to develop the record regarding Claimant’s work activity
before determining he engaged in SGA; the RFC was not supported by
substantial evidence; and the five-step determination was not supported by
substantial evidence because the jobs are not consistent with the RFC
determination.
1. The ALJ failed to develop the record regarding Claimant’s work activity
before determining he engaged in SGA.

Grabowski first argues the ALJ failed to make a complete analysis of
Martin’s SGA between December 2009 and May of 2013. She argues that while
based solely on the earnings, it appears that Martin engaged in SGA, the ALJ
should have taken into consideration the significant amount of time Martin
missed work and determined whether a subsidy existed. (Filing No. 15-1 at
CM/ECF pp. 14–15). Grabowski admits the ALJ’s SGA findings did not actually
impact the ultimate decision because the ALJ determined Martin was not
disabled at all relevant times. (Id. at CM/ECF p. 16). Regardless, Grabowski
13

argues that if this court remands the ultimate decision, this issue must be
resolved.

The Court does not find reversible error unless Plaintiff can prove he was
harmed and the ALJ’s decision would be different had such alleged error not
occurred. Shinseki v. Sanders, 556 U.S. 396, 409-410 (2009) (finding “the party
that ‘seeks to have a judgment set aside because of an erroneous ruling carries
the burden of showing that prejudice resulted.’"); Byes v. Astrue, 687 F.3d 913,
917 (8th Cir. 2012). Although Plaintiff admits that even had this alleged error
been corrected, the ALJ’s ultimate decision would not have been impacted, she
still argues that Martin was harmed by the ALJ’s SGA determination because it
permeated his later analysis. Specifically, Grabowski argues the ALJ used
Martin’s work activity to assess Martin’s ability to socialize in a work setting.
(Filing No. 18 at CM/ECF p. 1). Nevertheless, Plaintiff does not show that the
alleged error was so pervasive and harmful that but for the error, the ALJ’s
decision would have been different. See Shinseki, 556 U.S. at 409-410.
Accordingly, this court cannot find reversible error in the ALJ’s SGA
determination.

2. The RFC Was Not Supported by Substantial Evidence.
Grabowski argues that the ALJ’s RFC determination was unsupported by
substantial evidence because the ALJ incorrectly considered the weight afforded
to the opinions of numerous physicians and nurses and mischaracterized a
statement by one physician. Specifically, Grabowski argues the ALJ provided
significant weight to the consultative examiner, Dr. Dake and little weight to the
treating physician Dr. Clarke, and treating nurse practitioner Brown. She
additionally argues that the ALJ mischaracterized a statement from Dr. Thore.

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The RFC determination is an assessment of how Plaintiff’s impairments
and related symptoms affect his capacity to perform work-related activities. It is,
and it is solely for the ALJ to decide. Page v. Astrue, 484 F.3d 1040, 1043 (8th
Cir. 2007). The ALJ must determine a claimant’s RFC “based on all relevant
evidence, including medical records, observations of treating physicians and
others, and [claimant’s] own description of [his] limitations.@ Anderson v. Shalala,
51 F.3d 777, 779 (8th Cir.1995) (citations omitted).
Regarding Grabowski’s argument that the ALJ did not afford controlling
weight to the treating physicians’ opinions, while a “treating physician's opinion is
entitled to great weight, it does not automatically control or obviate the need to
evaluate the record as whole." Pirtle v. Astrue, 479 F.3d 931, 933 (8th Cir. 2007)
(quoting Hogan, 239 F.3d at 961). In fact, the treating physician's opinion is due
controlling weight only if the opinion is “‘well-supported by medically acceptable
clinical and laboratory diagnostic techniques and is not inconsistent with the
other substantial evidence in [the] record.'" Id. (quoting Prosch v. Apfel, 201 F.3d
1010, 1012-13 (8th Cir. 2000) (quoting 20 C.F.R. § 404.1527(d)(2) (2000)).

In this case, the ALJ provided a lengthy analysis supporting his findings of
Martin’s RFC. (See Filing No. 12-2 at CM/ECF pp. 18–25). Where the ALJ
provided little weight to certain treating physicians and nurses, his reasoning
explained that inconsistencies existing either in the medical records or treating
provider’s own notes negated the strength of the treating provider’s opinion. (See
Id.). For example, the ALJ provided “light weight” to the nurse practitioner
Brown’s statement that Martin was limited to sedentary work because the ALJ
determined these restrictions were inconsistent with the medical record after
reviewing the imaging studies and record of physical examinations. (Id. at

15

CM/ECF p. 24). He additionally noted that the treating nurse practitioner did not
complete any physical assessment of Martin to support her conclusions.

Grabowski argues the ALJ afforded too much weight to the opinions of the
consulting physician, Dr. Dake, who opined that Martin could perform medium
level work. However, just as the ALJ examined the record as a whole to assess
the opinions of the treating providers, he did so with Dr. Dake. Although the ALJ
afforded some weight to Dr. Dake’s opinion, he ultimately determined that light
work was more consistent with the evidence as a whole. (Id. at CM/ECF p. 23).
This negates Grabowski’s argument that the ALJ provided controlling or greater
weight to the opinion of consulting physician, Dr. Dake.

Grabowski additionally argues the ALJ mischaracterized the statement of
Dr. Thore. In the statement in question, Dr. Thore opined that Martin’s psychiatric
symptoms were too “acute” for him to be able to work. Regarding this statement,
the ALJ stated Martin’s symptoms were “too acute to determine if he was able to
work.” (Filing No. 12-2 at CM/ECF p. 24).
While the ALJ may have misunderstood Dr. Thore’s comment, he
nevertheless provided the statement some weight and provided further analysis
regarding Martin’s ability to work. (Id.) Additionally, the court does not find the
misinterpretation of Dr. Thore’s comment to be reversible error because the
ultimate determination of whether a claimant is able to work is not a medical
opinion, but rather an opinion on the application of the statute, a task that is
assigned solely to the discretion of the Commissioner. See Brosnahan v.
Barnhart, 336 F.3d 671, 676 (8th Cir. 2003).

16

Grabowski finally argues that the RFC determination was not supported by
“any medical opinion” thus rendering it unsupported by substantial evidence.
(Filing No. 18 at CM/ECF p. 3). Assuming Grabowski is arguing that the RFC is
unsupported because the ALJ did not strictly adhere to the opinion of any
medical professional, an ALJ does not base the RFC determination on the
physician opinions, even a treating physician’s opinion, but rather on the record
as a whole. Grable v. Colvin, 770 F.3d 1196, 1201 (8th Cir. 2014) (holding a
physician’s opinion does not automatically control); Cox v. Astrue, 495 F.3d 614,
619 (8th Cir. 2007) (reasoning ALJ’s RFC is not limited to medical evidence
exclusively); Brown v. Barnhart, 390 F.3d 535, 540 (8th Cir. 2004) (“[a
physician’s opinion] does not automatically control or obviate the need to
evaluate the record as whole”).

While the ALJ did not strictly adhere to the expressed opinions of any one
care provider, whether treating or consultative, he provided a thorough and
lengthy examination and analysis of the opinions of medical professionals,
assessments, records, and the claimant’s own testimony when making the final
RFC determination. (See Filing No. 12-2 at CM/ECF pp. 19–25). The ALJ’s RFC
determination was supported by substantial evidence on the record as a whole.

3. The Jobs Listed by the VE were not Consistent with the RFC
Determination.
Grabowski argues that the ALJ’s RFC determination limited Martin to
working in a quiet work environment (such as an office-type setting with a
customary range of noise), but that the job titles provided by the VE at the July
14, 2016 hearing all require “moderate” noise level under the DOT. Plaintiff

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argues that the ALJ was required to elicit a reasonable explanation for the
conflict before he can rely on the VE’s testimony regarding these jobs.

When the ALJ reaches the fifth step of the sequential evaluation process,
he has the burden of showing there are jobs in the economy that the claimant
remains able to perform. The ALJ determined Martin needed “a quiet
environment such as an office-type setting.” (Filing No. 12-2 at CM/ECF p. 18).
Later in his analysis, the ALJ reasoned “given the claimant’s complaints of
headaches, the undersigned finds that he was restricted to quiet work
environments rather than loud noise environments.” (Id. at CM/ECF p. 23).

During the July 2017 hearing, the ALJ stated that the hypothetical
individual would require “a quiet work environment such as an office setting.”
(Filing No. 12-2 at CM/ECF p. 39). After stating the individual limitations, the VE
requested clarification, and the following exchange occurred between the ALJ
and VE:
VE:

Your Honor, when you say noise level, are you referring to at the
moderate level?

ALJ: No. Well, it -- I don't know what your definition of moderate is. I put -I put a quiet environment, such as an office setting.
VE:

Okay. So you're looking at two -- okay, so we're looking at more than
moderate, a noise level of two or lower, quiet.

ALJ: Well, what is a -- what is a normal office-type setting?
VE:

Your Honor, some office settings are a 3, at the moderate level.

ALJ: Okay. Well, what if –
VE:

That's why I need clarification.

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ALJ: Okay. All right, well, I'm just saying an office-type setting, which
would include the quiet and the moderate, if that's what you're
saying.
VE:

Okay. Okay, yes, Your Honor. There are --

ALJ: I mean there's really -- let me editorialize here. There's really no
way, objectively, unless we have a decibel level. And I'm -- there's
no -- nothing in the record that would enable me to give -- find any -make any findings that he could tolerate or be around a certain
decibel level of an of [sic] in work environment. So given that, the
best I can do is say he could tolerate an office-type noise
environment, whether it's moderate or quiet or whatever, whatever
the usual customary
VE:

Okay, Your Honor.

ALJ: Whatever the customary range. Some might be noisier than others.
That's understandable. Okay. So –
VE:

Okay.

ALJ: -- does that, does that clear it up a little bit?
VE:

Yes, Your Honor.

(Filing No. 12-2 at CM/ECF pp. 38–40). Based upon this exchange, the VE then
suggested the occupations of mail clerk, collator operator, and marker. (Id. at
CM/ECF p. 40).
The Selected Characteristics of Occupations (“SCO”), the DOT’s
companion publication, provides five levels of noise. The second level is “quiet,”
and refers to environments like a library and many private offices. SCO, at D-2.
The third level is moderate, which includes business offices in which typewriters
are used. Id. Each of the jobs provided by the VE at the second hearing fit under
the category of level three or moderate noise. DICOT 209.687-026, MAIL

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CLERK; DICOT 208.685-010, COLLATOR OPERATOR; DICOT 209.587-034,
MARKER.

Grabowski does not argue that Martin could not perform the jobs listed by
the VE. Instead, she argues that the ALJ’s RFC determination, which stated
Martin be limited to a “quiet environment” should be literally construed to fit the
definition of “quiet” as listed in the SCO, and thus the listings provided by the VE
were inconsistent with the ALJ’s RFC determination. And although the ALJ
defined the “quiet environment” as an “office-type setting” in his RFC
determination, Grabowski argues the ALJ could not have meant the SCO noise
level three because “normal offices don't typically use typewriters.” (Filing No. 151 at CM/ECF p. 19).

Based on the exchange between the ALJ and VE at the July 14, 2016
hearing, the undersigned is not convinced that the ALJ was specifically stating
the office environment had to be defined as the SCO level-two “quiet” noise or
lower. In fact, the ALJ explicitly stated that the office may be moderate or quiet
noise level as long as the VE thought that the hypothetical office was
“customary.” And Grabowski’s argument that a customary office cannot be
moderate noise level because normal offices no longer use typewriters is
misguided. Typewriters are essentially obsolete technology and are not typically
used in any office. By requiring such a strict interpretation of the SCO definition
of business office, almost no office could fit under the moderate/level-three noise
category. Accordingly, the undersigned finds the listings provided by the VE
during the second hearing meet the RFC as described by the ALJ.

For all the foregoing reasons,

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IT IS ORDERED that upon review of the record as a whole, substantial
evidence supports the ALJ’s decision, and
1)

The decision of the Commissioner of the Social Security
Administration is affirmed.
a)
b)

2)

Plaintiff’s Motion to Reverse, (filing no. 15), is denied.
Defendant’s Motion to Affirm, (filing no. 16), is granted.

Judgment in accordance with this memorandum and order will be
entered by separate document.

Dated this 5th day of December, 2017.

BY THE COURT:
s/ Cheryl R. Zwart
United States Magistrate Judge

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